Gospel Truth Music Ministry Condemns Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Bill

24 Feb 2010 14:35 Africa/Lagos


Gospel Truth Music Ministry Condemns Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Bill

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Rev. Rizi Nasele Timane' and the Gospel Truth Music Ministry (http://www.rizigospel.com/) are voicing their support for Uganda's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community and their distress at the new perils that the community faces under the country's proposed Anti-Homosexuality Bill.


Homosexuality is already illegal in Uganda, but the proposed legislation would create a new offense of "aggravated homosexuality," punishable by death. An extraterritorial clause would require that even Ugandans living in other countries be extradited to face prosecution for offenses listed within the bill. The bill also proposes jail sentences for failure to report a homosexual act and for "promoting homosexuality," which could cover the activities of human rights groups, including organizations working on HIV and AIDS prevention.


Christianity is the most widespread religion in Uganda. In an open letter addressed to President Obama, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Timane' points out the disparity between the proposed legislation and God's law. She draws attention to the command in Micah 6:8 "to do justice, and to love kindness" as well as Mark 12:28-31 where "Jesus spells out the two commandments that encompass every other commandment," the second of which is "You shall love your neighbor as yourself." "The proposed anti-homosexuality bill is in direct violation," Timane' states.


A lesbian reverend from Nigeria, West Africa, Timane' was one of the first people to identify as openly gay in Africa and knows firsthand the life-threatening effects of homophobia. Her letter continues, "The Ugandan anti-homosexuality bill is anti-human, anti-Christian and in violation of the fundamental rights that ALL people living in our world today are entitled to. It is in essence, government-legislated genocide." Timane' calls on all Christians to oppose the proposed law. She also writes, "I ask Uganda's president (Yoweri Museveni) and all Ugandan lawmakers, to please engage in dialogue with the rest of the world on the importance of protecting the rights of minorities."


On February 21, 2010, the ministry took spiritual action by conducting a prayer vigil at the Unity Fellowship of Christ church in Riverside, Calif., praying against the passage of the bill. A record of the vigil is posted in the video section of the Gospel Truth Music Ministry Web site.


In addition, the ministry will be offering monthly video devotionals at its Web site, starting Sunday, March 7, 2010. The devotionals will be video responses to the most often asked questions the ministry receives and occasional sermons on God's inclusive love for all people. "Gospel Truth Music Ministry is available to LGBT individuals 24 hours a day worldwide, including those suffering in Uganda," said Timane'. "We are a resource for anyone in need of encouragement or struggling to reconcile their sexuality with their spiritual faith."


The full text of the open letter is available at http://www.rizigospel.com/.


Contact:

Christina Thach
Gospel Truth Music Ministry
25876 The Old Road, Suite 247
Newhall, CA 91381
888-474-9423
thegospeltruthmusic@yahoo.com




This release was issued through eReleases(TM). For more information, visit http://www.ereleases.com/.


Source: The Gospel Truth Music Ministry

CONTACT: Christina Thach of Gospel Truth Music Ministry,
+1-888-474-9423, thegospeltruthmusic@yahoo.com


Web Site: http://www.rizigospel.com/


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SAMHSA and Ad Council to Launch Mental Health Campaign for the African American Community

SAMHSA and Ad Council to Launch Mental Health Campaign for the African American Community

PSAs debut at Howard University and Colleges and Universities Nationwide as part of First Annual HBCU National Mental Health Awareness Day

Washington, D.C., February 23, 2010 /PRNewswire/ — The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), working in collaboration with the Ad Council and the Stay Strong Foundation, announced today the launch of a national public service advertising (PSA) campaign designed to raise awareness of mental health problems among young adults in the African American community. The new PSAs were unveiled at a Black History Month event at Howard University this morning to coincide with the first annual HBCU National Mental Health Awareness Day. The launch was telecast to colleges and universities nationwide.

Mental illnesses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, are widespread in the U.S. and often misunderstood. According to SAMHSA, in 2008 there were an estimated 9.8 million adults aged 18 or older living with serious mental illness. Among adults, the prevalence of serious mental illness is highest in the 18 to 25 age group, yet this age group is also the least likely to receive services or counseling. In 2008, 6.0 percent of African Americans ages 18-25 had serious mental illness in the past year. Overall, only 58.7 percent of Americans with serious mental illness received care within the past 12 months and the percentage of African Americans receiving services is only 44.8 percent.

"Raising understanding and attention to these issues within the African American community will provide greater opportunities for those needing help to receive effective mental health services," said Kathryn A. Power, Director of SAMHSA's Center for Mental Health Services.

Created pro bono by Grey New York through the Ad Council, the campaign aims to promote acceptance of mental health problems within the African American community by encouraging, educating and inspiring young adults to step up and talk openly about mental health problems. The television, radio, print and Web ads feature real personal stories of African Americans dealing with mental health problems, and they aim to engage those in the community to support young adults who need help. The PSAs direct audiences to visit a new website, www.storiesthatheal.samhsa.gov, where they can learn more about mental health problems and how to get involved.

"According to our research and the leading mental health experts, young adults with mental health problems are more likely to seek help if social acceptance is broadened and they receive support and services early on," said Peggy Conlon, president & CEO of the Ad Council. "We are proud to continue our partnership with SAMHSA to address these issues in the African American community and help create the necessary societal change that will decrease the negative attitudes that surround mental illness, and ultimately inspire those who want help to get it."

Terrie M. Williams, MSW, co-founder of The Stay Strong Foundation, collaborated on the development of the Web videos and PSA materials and serves as a campaign spokesperson. The Stay Strong Foundation works to support, educate and inspire African American youth through a series of programs and events that are designed to raise awareness of teen issues, promote the personal well-being of young people and enhance their educational and professional development.

"It is the work of the Stay Strong Foundation and my personal mission to educate everyone, and in particular the African American community, about depression and its impact on our communities," said Williams. "Every day so many of us wear the "mask" of wellness that hides our pain from the world. Now is the time to identify and name our pain—minus the myths and the stigmas—and seek the help so many of us need."

SAMHSA's Campaign for Mental Health Recovery partners include the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institute of Mental Health, state mental health agencies, leading researchers on stigma and a broad coalition of stakeholders, including organizations that represent provider organizations and consumer and family member groups. The Campaign held a series of regional meetings to develop a grassroots network to support the Campaign and provide assistance with anti-stigma efforts to states and local communities.

A resource guide entitled, "Developing a Stigma Reduction Initiative," is also a part of the campaign and is based on the evaluation and lessons learned from the Elimination of Barriers Initiative. The guide provides information on how to mount a statewide anti-stigma campaign, examples of outreach materials, reports on the best practices for stigma reduction, and lists important resources for technical assistance. Copies of the guide can be downloaded at www.mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publication/allpubs/sma06-4176 or by calling SAMHSA's Health Information Network at 1-877-SAMHSA7. SAMHSA also maintains a national technical assistance center called the ADS Center (Resource Center to Promote Acceptance, Dignity, and Social Inclusion) to help States, communities, and individuals get the necessary information and resources to counter misperceptions, prejudice and discrimination associated with mental illnesses. The ADS Center can be accessed by calling 1-800-540-0320 or visiting www.promoteacceptance.samhsa.gov.

"In general, mental health problems are difficult to talk about," said Rob Baiocco, EVP/Executive Creative Director of Grey New York. "But the second someone opens up and tells their specific personal story you instantly realize what they are dealing with. It's such an immediate, intuitive and emotional understanding. And from that understanding comes the healing."

Historically Black Colleges and Universities' Center for Excellence in Substance Abuse and Mental Health at Morehouse School of Medicine, a grant funded through (SAMHSA), created National HBCU Mental Health Awareness Day. The HBCU Mental Health Awareness Day is the first national effort to promote behavioral health on HBCUs. The all-day event is being co-hosted by three additional HBCU institutions, Howard, Elizabeth City State University and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. The purpose is to increase public knowledge and student awareness about mental health issues and to foster a more supportive and informed environment on HBCU campuses and in the community. For more information, visit www.hbcucfe.net.

The Ad Council and SAMHSA first launched the Campaign for Mental Health Recovery nationwide in December 2006. Additional public service efforts designed to reach Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans and Native Americans will also be launched this spring. To view the ads, please visit www.adcouncil.org. The PSAs will air in advertising time that will be entirely donated by the media.

SAMHSA is a public health agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The agency is responsible for improving the accountability, capacity and effectiveness of the nation's substance abuse prevention, addictions, treatment and mental health services delivery system. SAMHSA can be reached at www.samhsa.gov.

The Ad Council (www.adcouncil.org) is a private, non-profit organization that marshals talent from the advertising and communications industries, the facilities of the media, and the resources of the business and non-profit communities to produce, distribute and promote public service campaigns on behalf of non-profit organizations and government agencies. The Ad Council addresses issue areas such as improving the quality of life for children, preventive health, education, community well-being, environmental preservation and strengthening families.

The Stay Strong Foundation (SSF) is a 501(c)(3) organization founded by Terrie M. Williams and Xavier Artis in 2001 to empower America's youth. The Foundation encourages corporate and individual responsibility; develops educational resources for youth and youth organizations; provides and coordinates internships; sets up mentoring opportunities; and facilitates visits by prominent individuals and business professionals to schools, libraries, youth organizations and group homes.

Media Contacts:
SAMHSA Press Office
240-276-2130

Ad Council Press Office
212-984-1964
news@adcouncil.org

Ambassador Joseph Wilson (ret.) Gives Keynote Address at Africa's Indaba 2010 Power Conference

24 Feb 2010 13:20 Africa/Lagos

Ambassador Joseph Wilson (ret.) Gives Keynote Address at Africa's Indaba 2010 Power Conference

Urges Attendees To "Get On with the Job of Providing Power to the Vast Number of Africans Who Don't Have It"

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, Feb. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- VIPs and delegates gathered in South Africa yesterday to hear retired US Ambassador Joseph Wilson, a Director of Symbion Power, deliver the keynote address at the opening of the Power Indaba 2010 conference in Durban, Symbion Power announced today. Ambassador Wilson served for the United States government at the US Embassy in Niger and he served as Ambassador to Gabon and Sao Tome. He was President Bill Clinton's senior advisor on African Affairs at the White House when Clinton made his historic visit to Africa in 1998.


Ambassador Wilson served as Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Baghdad, Iraq during the first Gulf War and after retiring from government service he became a vocal opponent of the President's decision to invade Iraq in 2003. After visiting Niger in the run up to the second Gulf War he challenged the Bush administration's misuse of intelligence stating that Iraq had attempted to purchase Uranium Yellow Cake from that African nation. His six-year battle with the Bush administration began when the White House exposed his wife's identity as a CIA covert officer. This has been chronicled in his bestselling book, The Politics of Truth and in another bestseller, Fair Game, written by his wife, former CIA Officer Valerie Plame. A movie telling the story, directed by Doug Liman (The Bourne Identity), starring Naomi Watts as Valerie and Sean Penn as The Ambassador will be released later in 2010.


Following visits this January to Angola and Tanzania, Ambassador Wilson's remarks to the 1500 Indaba attendees exhorted the participants to match 35 years of political maturity with the unfinished business of creating economic growth. He said, "We have studied electrification to death. It is now time to dispense with conferences and get on with the job of providing power to the vast number of Africans who don't have it." Wilson underscored the importance of building the electrical power facilities that are needed to convert raw materials to finished products as well as emphasized the importance of building the capacity of local people to do this work. Ambassador Wilson remarked that Symbion Power's success working in difficult and hostile environments is based upon its corporate philosophy of training local workers and partnering with local firms.


Speaking by telephone, Symbion's Chief Executive Officer, Paul Hinks said, "Joe Wilson loves Africa and Africa loves Joe. I just spent much of January and February in Africa with him and I witnessed the love affair first hand. The courage he displayed by defending the dignity of Africa, when it was wrongly alleged that Saddam Hussein was buying uranium from Niger is further testimony to a man who wants to see poverty alleviated on a continent that is rich with an abundance of natural resources."


Hinks added, "Ambassador Wilson will be playing a greater, executive role with Symbion in 2010 and going forward. We have four projects under construction in Iraq and Kurdistan, we anticipate new work in Africa shortly and we are in client discussions for projects in Yemen and Oman." "We have unfinished business with regard to Afghanistan and we will be vigorous about this and in the pursuit of new opportunities there later this year," said Hinks.


The Ambassador concluded his remarks to the conference by urging the participants to redouble their efforts to realize the dream of bringing power, light and prosperity to the people of Africa.


About Symbion Power:


Symbion Power is an American company established in 2005 with offices in the U.S., across the Middle East and in Africa that specializes in developing complex turnkey electric power infrastructure systems, including transmission lines, substations and switchyards and thermal power plants, in regions of the world where conflict and instability are major impediments to progress. Symbion's collaboration with Hart Security, the global agency that shares a belief in the importance of working with local populations, has enabled Symbion to develop a unique formula for success that combines security and construction to deliver completed technical projects using a trained, local workforce in locations where security is a risk factor. www.symbion-power.com


Source: Symbion Power

CONTACT: Zelda Weitz of Symbion Power, +1-703-621-1202,
+27-82-87-25-995, zelda.weitz@symbion-power.com


Web Site: http://www.symbion-power.com/

IFJ Calls for the Release of Radio Journalist in Somalia

24 Feb 2010 12:54 Africa/Lagos

IFJ Calls for the Release of Radio Journalist in Somalia


MOGADISHU, February 24, 2010/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) is deeply concerned about the security and safety of journalists in Somalia following the arrest of Ali Yusuf Adan a Radio journalist in Wanlaweyn who was detained on Sunday, 21 February 2010, in the district of lower Shabelle region, controlled by the Al Shabaab Administration.


“We firmly condemn this arrest which adds to our concerns for the safety of our colleagues in Somalia . This climate of terror against the journalists is unacceptable,” declared Gabriel Baglo, Director of IFJ Africa Office. “Urgent measures are needed urgently to address the situation in this country where journalists continue to pay a heavy price only for doing their work”.


The arrest of Ali Yusuf Adan, a correspondent of Radio Somaliweyn for Lower Shabelle region, came shortly after he had published a report about the Al-Shabab militias who shot a man over prayer delay in Wanlaweyn. On 20 February, he was arrested by the Al-Shabaab administration in the region and was later transferred to a prison in Merca town, headquarters of Lower Shabelle region. Local sources say this report might be behind his arrest but Al-Shabaab has not disclosed their reason for the journalist's detention.


According to the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ), despite the censorship imposed by the Al-Shabaab on the media which led many journalists to flee the territories under their control, some journalists are still working in these areas under these harsh conditions.


“We are concerned about the safety of Ali Yusuf Adan. We demand the safe return of the journalist. Al-Shabaab must stop their repressive actions,” said Omar Faruk Osman, NUSOJ Secretary General.


IFJ demands the immediate and unconditional release of Ali Yusuf Adan and call for an international action for Somalia . IFJ renews also its firm demand to Somali authorities to give top priority to the safety and the security of Somali journalists in order to guarantee press freedom in this country.


For more information, contact +221 33 867 95 87 +221 33 867 95 87


The IFJ represents over 600,000 journalists in 125 countries worldwide


Source: International Federation of Journalists (IFJ)

MSI Computer to Showcase a Dazzling Array of New and Industry-First All-in-One PCs at CeBIT 2010

23 Feb 2010 13:00 Africa/Lagos

MSI Computer to Showcase a Dazzling Array of New and Industry-First All-in-One PCs at CeBIT 2010

Industry-First 24-inch 3D All-in-Ones and High-End Audio-Equipped Models Featuring Stylish, Eco-Friendly Designs Demonstrate MSI's Commitment to Innovation and Technology Leadership

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif., Feb. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- MSI, a leading manufacturer of computer components and systems, will provide CeBIT 2010 attendees with a unique opportunity to experience the latest, most technologically advanced All-in-One (AIO) PCs on the market today. MSI will showcase a wide range of innovative new AIOs offering industry-leading performance and multimedia entertainment capabilities for home and business users at its exhibit booth (Hall 17, Booth C38) at the annual CeBIT tradeshow in Hannover, Germany, March 2-6, 2010.


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100223/SF59102)


From the first 24-inch, full HD (1080p) 3D All-in-One PCs to the extreme-performance, eco-friendly Wind Top All-in-Ones featuring the new Intel® Core(TM) processors and premium, hi-fi audio, MSI is raising the bar on AIO performance, usability, energy-efficiency, and functionality. MSI will also demonstrate its new power-saving LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability - http://www.lohas.com/) models, setting a new standard in green computing.


World's First Large Screen, Full HD 3D All-in-One PC


MSI's Wind Top All-in-One 3D PC integrates advanced 3D display technology with powerful CPU processing to deliver smooth, clear and vibrant 3D images with a high level of image detail and clarity. Combining a large, 24-inch 120Hz LED display and full HD (1080p) resolution with 3D shutter glasses allows home users to experience the 3D movie theater experience in the comfort and convenience of their living rooms.


High-Performance Intel® Core(TM) Series Processors: the Wind Top AE2280/AE2420


Featuring a 22- or 24-inch multi-touch display, the new Wind Top AE2420 and Wind Top AE2280 All-in-One PCs are equipped with the latest Intel® Core (Core i3/i5/i7) processors and Intel's Turbo Boost technology, which automatically increases CPU frequency on demand, delivering maximum performance for HD movies, sophisticated 3D games and other resource-hungry applications. Combining an intuitive multi-touch display with high-performance processing power, these Wind Top All-in-One PCs combine sleek, stylish looks with the raw power to make traditional desktop PCs a thing of the past.


Eco-Friendly AIOs for Business Users: the Wind Top AP1920/AE1920 and Wind Box Mini-PCs


The Wind Top AP1920 and AE1920 19- and 20-inch All-in-One PCs, as well as the Hetis/DC520/DE220 10L, 4.7L and 2L Wind Box Mini-PCs, combine energy-efficiency, a small desktop footprint and enough processing power for today's productive and environmentally-minded business users. Providing 90 percent lower average hourly energy consumption than a traditional 300W desktop PC, each of these MSI models have achieved U.S. Energy Star certification, and will adhere to the European Union's new EuP (Energy using Product) environmental directive that will take effect in 2010. In addition, these innovative PCs utilize coating materials that are free from harmful substances and packaging material that is 80 percent recyclable.


Premium Sound Technology: Wind Top AE2280/AE2260/AE2220/AE2400/AE2420


MSI is the first PC company to incorporate high-quality speakers into 22-inch and 24-inch All-in-One PCs. The MSI Wind Top AE2280, AE2260 and AE2220 are equipped with two 5-watt Hi-Fi speakers, while the 24-inch AE2400 and AE2420 feature 10-watt speakers for added bass response. In addition, MSI's unique Premium Sound Technology adjusts audio output when viewing a 1080p Full-HD video, and all Wind Top All-in-One models provide excellent sound reproduction across the low, medium and high frequency ranges.


A Full Range of All-in-One Sizes, Configuration and Colors


MSI Computer offers the industry's largest range of AIO sizes and configurations to meet the unique needs of any home or business user. MSI's CeBIT exhibit will showcase All-in-One PC models with the widest variety of screen sizes, including 18.5-inch, 19.5-inch, 21.5-inch, and 23.5-inch models. In addition, MSI will also display its new Wind Top PCs that are available in a variety of rich, beautiful colors designed to suit the personality of individual users.


For more information about MSI Wind Top All-in-One PCs, please visit MSI's website at www.msi.com.


About MSI


Founded in 1986, MSI strives to design and manufacture superior technology and innovative products, while offering outstanding customer service. MSI has continued to uphold a business philosophy that stresses "Award-winning product quality and outstanding customer service." MSI specializes in the design and manufacture of mainboards, graphics cards, desktop PCs, All-in-One PCs, wireless communication products, and Notebook PCs. To learn more about MSI's complete product lines, please visit: us.msi.com. You may also connect with MSI Computer on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/MSI.ComputerUS) and Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/msiUSA).


Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100223/SF59102
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: MSI

CONTACT: Melanie Ho of MSI, +1-626-913-0828, ext. 183,
melanieh@msicomputer.com


Web Site: MSI


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eLearning Africa Launches Online Photography Competition

eLearning Africa Launches Online Photography Competition

LUSAKA, Zambia, February 4, 2010/African Press Organization (APO)/ — How ICTs Are Changing the Way We Live: eLearning Africa Launches Online Photography Competition


How have mobile phones, the Internet and computers changed people’s lives on the African continent? To find out, eLearning Africa has launched an online photography contest. The organisers are inviting people from Africa to submit images that show how they live, learn and work with Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).


The top three entries will win a photo camera, a mini camcorder and an iPod. The ten best photos will be featured in an exhibition at eLearning Africa conference. The largest pan-African conference on ICT for development, education and training, will take place in Lusaka, Zambia, from May 26th – 28th. More information on how to submit a photo can be found at http://www.elearning-africa.com/picturevoting_home.php.


Developing sustainable and effective educational infrastructures is one of the goals of the event. This year’s eLearning Africa – the fifth – will take place under the patronage of the Zambian Minister of Education, the honourable Ms Dora Siliya.


With a multitude of best-practice examples on display, eLearning Africa presents how and where technology-enhanced learning can boost the Continent’s economies and development. International experts provide participants with solutions on how online education and training can be implemented in corporations and organisations successfully and cost effectively.


Serving as a pan-African platform, eLearning Africa is the key networking event for investors, education experts, as well as providers of education and training on the Continent. Each year, a different country serves as the venue.


eLearning Africa is accompanied by an exhibition and demonstration area where leading international eLearning manufacturers, suppliers and service providers present their latest products and services.

Detailed information on the event can be found at www.elearning-africa.com.


Notes for editors
eLearning Africa, 5th International Conference on ICT for Development, Education and Training May 26 – 28, 2010 Mulungushi International Conference Center, Lusaka, Zambia


Organisers: ICWE GmbH, www.icwe.net


Contact: ICWE GmbH, info@elearning-africa.com, www.eLearning-africa.com
Tel.: +49 (0)30 310 18 18-0

Press Contact
ICWE GmbH
Ms Beate Kleessen & Franziska Steiger
Tel.: +49 30 310 18 18-0, press-service@icwe.net

Press releases

http://www.elearning-africa.com/press_release.php

Photographs


SOURCE eLearning Africa

Posted in AFRICA / AFRIQUE, MAV Media Advisory/Invitation/Agenda, NTP Not for Profit, Zambia

Africa Telecom People Conference and Awards / Optimism on Telecoms Tempered by High Taxes and Degrading Regulatory Environment

23 Feb 2010 08:27 Africa/Lagos


Africa Telecom People Conference and Awards / Optimism on telecoms tempered by high taxes and degrading regulatory environment

PARIS, February 22, 2010/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- This year's African Telecom People Conference and Awards on 12 February was held in Paris and as a result was smaller than previous years' events. Nevertheless, it was an interesting gathering as Laurent Marx and Sylvain Béletre from Balancing-Act discovered.

Marc Rennard, VP at Orange AMEA highlighted recent Orange progress in Africa, such as major investment to deploy new fiber networks landing on the continent.
He highlighted the content issue in Africa, mentioning that infrastructure should come before content but that local content can also boost usage demand."Orange is expecting double digit growth on the continent for 3G deployment, but that will most depend on the attitudes of the regulatory, fiscal and political bodies" he added, a clear reference to its current tussle with the Kenyan regulator CCK over the cost of 3G licences.

Rennard also confirmed that Orange Money successes could also be replicated in other African countries pretty soon on the basis that only 5% of Africans have a bank account. Orange is making large progress with content, investing in a new pan-african portal named StarAfrica.com, in football rights via the CAN (Coupe d'Afrique des Nations) 2010 partnership, and in local website revamping.

A recurring theme was that African Governments were killing “the goose that laid the golden egg”. Tax increases in many countries should stop and stabilise. Real ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) is now as low as USD 3/month in some regions. Data ARPUs in South Africa are USD 2 in South Africa. Observers should not evaluate companies on ARPU, but on AMRU (Average Margin Per User). Wholesale and roaming costs of African telecoms are still much too high to break the telecoms divide.

Not all the extra costs in Africa come from Government. Outside of the conference tracks, there was talk about a lot of money being wasteddue to stealing and hidden costs: "one day you build a post or dig some fiber, the day after it has gone! then the mayor comes to you and suddenly ask for extra taxes. Same from local inhabitants, they want money because you dig in front of their houses" commented a large operator. People steal telecoms equipment and bypass traffic which indirectly increases telecoms costs for local users.

Rémy Fekete, the partner responsible for Technology Media and Telecoms at Gide, provided an in-depth review of the telecoms' regulatory status and related issues in Africa. He raised a number of examples showing that, after a virtuous trend, the continent has witnessed a degradation of its regulatory framework over last year.

The lack of an attractive legal and regulatory environment is a serious threat to the capacity of the continent to move to 3G/Mobile internet generation. Significant investments - both in high capacity transmission networks and local content - are required to make mobile internet a reality in Africa.The significant degradation of the environment does not help to build PPP (public private partnerships) operations.

Diversification, intelligent competition and entrepreneurship should be further encouraged by governments to lower telecoms prices, increase bandwidth and telecommunication access.

There is an obvious lack of support from governments in supporting the telecoms industry: Fekete made a point that most regulators are not truly independent except in a few countries. Government need to put their voice into action and give full powers to follow up with regulators decisions and endorse the law. Competition has been decreasing in several regions as a result. There is a lack of will and means to implement universal access, except for example in Tanzania and Uganda where results are promising.

Demba Diop, Director of Business Services at MTN Ivory Coast mentioned that it had also invested several million dollars in football rights and on content. Diop said that his company has signed a deal with TraceTV - a channel present in the whole Africa which broadcasts in 145 countries - available via pre-paid offer "MTN Trace Mobile" giving the ability to download music video clips among other services.

The offer, set at USD 9 and targeting urban youth includes voice, a data pack available for free over week-ends and free SMS', as well as access to Trace club, an interactive platform. MTN Cameroon launched the offer at the end of Dec 2009, and Ivory Coast is planned for February 2010. Thanks to the offer, ARPU has already increased.

Corinne Lozé CEO of Orange StarAfrica.com described the launch of the newly launched Orange information and interactive portal, still in development. The Portal provides free news related to current affairs, sport, music and education (more at www.starafrica.com). The StarAfrica.com team has 5 full time employees and 15 correspondents from various African regions aggregating content. The portal lives on two financial sources: advertising banners and premium services.

The site will enable interactive user feedback and networking, thus boosting local content and sharing of opinions. It will also expand to cover new areas in order to promote communication from individuals and companies and enable blog-type functions. Lozé added: "internet growth is very rapid in Africa right now; Africans only reprents 2.5% of global internet users but it could fast catch up with the lead pack". Lozé called on African content providers to contact her team in order to increase content flows.

Nadine Berezak-Lazarus, MD of BMP telecommunications consultants GmbH in Germany described "PPP" processes, public-private partnerships on the deployment of regional fiber networks and the set up of universal access.

Serge Thiémélé, associate of the Global telecom center at Ernst and Young Cote d'Ivoire delivered a very interesting presentation on best financial practices and hidden details regarding kpi provided by telecoms service providers.

The conference ended with the awards evening gala which confirmed the following people had received awards (list of awards)

Akwasi Agyeman, Investor Relations Officer at Starcomms Plc. in Nigeria said "It was a great event and Starcomms was excited and grateful for the award. When you think about all the major operators within West Africa and especially Nigeria, and Starcomms wins this The Best Operator Award, it speaks volumes of what the Board of Directors, the CEO and the Employees are trying to achieve – a clear focus on executing all initiatives including excellence in customer service.


We will continue to bring innovative products to the Nigerian community."


Source: African Telecom People Conference and Awards


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Photos from the Nokia Bloggers Forum in Lagos, Nigeria

The first Nokia Bloggers Forum in Nigeria took place on Thursday February 18, 2010, at the Robert's Cafe on Isaac John Street, Ikeja, G.R.A. in Lagos, Nigeria.


Ngozi Ife Anene, Nokia Communications Manager, West Africa, speaking to the bloggers and guests at the forum.


Ngozi Ife Anene sitting attentively.



Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima, The Publisher/Editor of Nigerians Report speaking on how Nokia can improve mobile blogging.

Dolce&Gabbana and D&G Fashion Shows Live for the First Time on Smartphones

Dolce&Gabbana and D&G Fashion Shows Live for the First Time on Smartphones. (PRNewsFoto/Dolce&Gabbana) MILAN ITALY

19 Feb 2010 18:58 Africa/Lagos


Dolce&Gabbana and D&G Fashion Shows Live for the First Time on Smartphones

Live.DolceGabbana.Mobi

MILAN, Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Dolce&Gabbana will broadcast the Fall/Winter 2010/11 Women's Fashion Show live on iPhones and Android Mobile devices (Google), which are the two most popular smartphones worldwide (82% of the market share of the total browsing market in the USA and 70% in Europe*).


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100219/NY57700 )

The dates are:
-- D&G > Thursday, 25th of February from 3pm (GMT +1);
-- Dolce&Gabbana > Sunday, 28th of February from 1pm (GMT +1).


Always a pioneer in the technological experimentations of the digital communications market, in 2005, Dolce&Gabbana was the first among fashion brands to broadcast the fashion shows live on its official website www.dolcegabbana.com. This season the fashion shows will be available again on: live.dolcegabbana.com as well as on the brand's official Facebook page - www.facebook.com/DolceGabbana.


In 2008, Dolce&Gabbana reached a new frontier in mobile communication by working on more interaction and direct contact with its own customers and with new potential targets through the channel dolcegabbana.mobi, which is dedicated to both the Dolce&Gabbana and the D&G brands, as well as through the free-application for iPhones "D&G Fashion Channel". In 2010, Dolce&Gabbana is raising the bar of direct contact with the most evolved consumers of mobile communications, offering the opportunity to watch the upcoming Fall/Winter 2010/11 season fashion show live on iPhone and Android Mobile Devices (Google). The live show will be freely available on live.dolcegabbana.mobi


Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100219/NY57700
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Dolce&Gabbana

CONTACT: Debra Thom of HL Group, +1-212-529-5533, dthom@hlgrp.com


Web Site: Dolce&Gabbana

Tiger out of the Woods with Majority of Viewers Reporting Apology was Sincere

19 Feb 2010 21:45 Africa/Lagos

Tiger out of the Woods with Majority of Viewers Reporting Apology was Sincere

-- Viewers split as to whether apology changed their perception of Woods --

FLEMINGTON, N.J., Feb. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Results from a national media study among 1,090 Americans revealed that the majority of viewers (60%) indicated that Tiger Woods' apology was sincere after viewing a video clip from his press conference earlier today.


The study was conducted today by HCD Research using its MediaCurves.com® website, to obtain viewers' perceptions of statements by Tiger Woods during a press conference this morning in response to his extra-marital affairs. To view detailed results go to: www.mediacurves.com.


Viewers were split on whether Woods' statements changed their perception of him, with 52% reporting that their perception of him had not changed; 31% indicating that their perception had changed in a positive way; and 17% indicating that their perception of him had changed in a negative way. In addition, the majority of viewers (64%) reported that Tiger Woods' apology was sufficient.


"Our automated response curves revealed that male and female viewers' sincerity levels were fairly consistent," commented Glenn Kessler, president and CEO, HCD Research. "The one exception occurred when Mr. Woods made comments denying the presence of any domestic violence, during which men perceived him to be less sincere than women in regard to those statements."


Among the findings:

Do you think that Tiger Woods' apology was sincere?



Total
-----
Yes 60%
No 40%

Has this press conference changed your perception of Tiger Woods?



Total
-----
Yes, I have a more negative
perception of Tiger Woods 17%

Yes, I have a more positive
perception of Tiger Woods 31%

No, my perception of Tiger
Woods has not changed 52%

Do you think the apology that Tiger Woods gave was sufficient?



Total
-----
Yes 64%
No 36%


While viewing the video, participants indicated their perceived levels of sincerity by moving their mouse from left to right on a continuum. The responses were recorded in quarter-second intervals and reported in the form of curves. The participants were also asked to respond to post-viewing questions.


HCD Research is a marketing and communications research company headquartered in Flemington, NJ. The company's services include traditional and web-based research. For additional information on HCD Research, access the company's web site at www.hcdi.net or call HCD Research at 908-788-9393. MediaCurves.com® (www.mediacurves.com) is a media measurement website that provides the media and general public with a venue to view Americans' perceptions of popular and controversial media events and advertisements.


Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071204/NYTU133LOGO
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: HCD Research

CONTACT: Vince McGourty, HCD Research, +1-908-483-9121,
vince.mcgourty@hcdi.net


Web Site: http://www.hcdi.net/


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